First Ukrainian war refugees leave Laois tents but more will follow to live under canvas

After being forced to sleep under canvas in near storm like conditions, some of the hundreds of war refugees from Ukraine who been living in Electric tents in Laois have been moved out.

RTÉ has reported that the first 26 Ukrainian refugees were moved out of tents in Stradbally in Thursday, September 21. The station says that more than 60 people to alternative accommodation on Friday.

RTÉ news has also reported that since 5 September up to around 30 people a day have arrived at Stradbally Hall with new arrivals likely to replace those who have left while other accomodation is being sourced.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth told the Leinster Express on September 20 that as of 19 September there were currently 513 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (Ukrainians) in tented accommodation. It said 456 of these BOTPs were in Stradbally.

A maximum of 750 people can be accomodated in the bell tents under the contract with the owner Tom Cosby. The first of the refugees came directly to Laois from Dublin Airport.

The statment was issued in the wake of the torrential rain and wind that caused flooding and other problems at the Ploughing Championships which were held nearby in Ratheniska.

The Department insisted that the welfare, safety and security of the residents of the site is of paramount importance.

It said the following welfare services are provided; hot catered meal service provision, on-site access to an advanced paramedic and first aid service, serviced shower and toilet facilities; self-service laundry facilities; sanitation and refuse services; indoor and outdoor dining facilities; indoor and outdoor recreational spaces; utilities (hot water, heating) availability and tracked walkway all around site to ensure safe passage between on-site tents and other amenities.

It said it will endeavour to ensure that the use of tents is a short-term measure but in the context of the accommodation shortage, the priority must remain on providing shelter.

The Department made no reference to the impending transfer of people from Stradbally this week.

Relief demanded for Laois households 'struggling' to pay mortgages

The original contract was signed due to the "significant shortfall in accommodation for those fleeing Ukraine". The refugee camp is being operated by Pastures New Limited.